Silver Airways Ceases Flight Operations Under New Ownership

Silver Airways Ceases Flight Operations Under New Ownership

Silver Airways has officially ceased all flight operations as of June 11, 2025, following a strategic decision by its new ownership. The regional carrier, which provided essential air service across Florida, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean, had recently undergone a Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization. Its assets were subsequently sold to a new airline holding company, which opted not to continue Silver Airways’ flight services.

Bankruptcy Restructuring and Asset Sale

In a formal statement, Silver Airways expressed regret over the cessation of operations, explaining that the sale of its assets was part of an effort to restructure under bankruptcy protection. The transaction was completed despite objections from various stakeholders. The sale was finalized with Wexford Capital, through its affiliates KIA II LLC, which provided debtor-in-possession financing, and Argentum Acquisition Co. LLC, the sole bidder and purchaser of Silver’s assets. Although there had been initial plans to acquire Seaborne Airlines alongside Silver Airways, the final agreement excluded Seaborne.

Seaborne Airlines, Silver’s Puerto Rican subsidiary, continued limited operations until June 11, 2025. Flight tracking data confirms that its only aircraft operated routes between St. Thomas Cyril E. King Airport and St. Thomas SPB on the final day of service. No tickets are available for flights beyond this date, marking the end of Seaborne’s operations under Silver Airways.

Impact on Regional Air Travel and Industry

The immediate halt of Silver Airways’ services has significant repercussions for passengers and the regional airline market. Travelers who depended on Silver for connectivity within Florida, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas now face disruptions and must seek alternative carriers. This development is likely to intensify competition among remaining airlines, potentially affecting pricing and service availability on routes previously dominated by Silver Airways.

Industry analysts have voiced concerns regarding the broader implications for tourism and travel in the affected regions. The sudden withdrawal of Silver Airways may pose operational challenges for travelers and could influence the dynamics of regional air service, particularly in key tourism hubs. At the time of closure, Silver Airways operated a fleet of eight aircraft, including three ATR42-600s and five ATR72-600s, leased from Azorra and Jetstream Aviation Capital. The airline maintained operational bases in Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, San Juan, and Tampa, serving 16 destinations across the Caribbean and the United States.

Efforts to obtain further comment from Silver Airways regarding the shutdown and its impact on passengers and regional connectivity remain ongoing.